Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT a factor that disrupts fluency?

1. Strong word analysis skills

2. Lack of familiarity with content vocabulary

3. Weak background knowledge

4. Lack of sufficient practice

The correct answer is: Strong word analysis skills

Strong word analysis skills contribute positively to reading fluency. When a reader has well-developed word analysis skills, they can decode words efficiently, leading to smoother, more consistent reading. This proficiency reduces the likelihood of hesitations or mispronunciations that disrupt fluency. Additionally, strong word analysis enables readers to recognize and process familiar words quickly, allowing them to focus on comprehension instead of decoding challenges. In contrast, the other options directly contribute to disruptions in fluency. Lack of familiarity with content vocabulary can hinder a reader's ability to quickly and accurately identify and pronounce words, leading to interruptions in their reading flow. Similarly, weak background knowledge can make it difficult for readers to make connections with the text, slowing down their comprehension and affecting their overall reading speed. Lastly, insufficient practice reduces a reader's comfort and proficiency with text, which can lead to less fluent reading.